President Jim Collins (’84) announced today that Loras College recently received a $50,000 cash donation from Msgr. Martin Laughlin (’48) toward the $75-million Inspiring Lives and Leadership Campaign. The donation establishes the Rev. James J. Donohue, Rev. Andrew J. Creighton and Msgr. William B. Collins Scholarship.

“I received so many spiritual and intellectual gifts from Loras,” said Msgr. Laughlin. “I wanted to say ‘thank you’ to a place that I revere. My wish is to honor three wonderful professors and priests—Rev. Donahue, Rev. Creighton and Msgr. Collins—who were exemplary to so many.”

The scholarship will be available to students who demonstrate significant financial need, with a preference given to those majoring in English, Philosophy or French.

“We are grateful for Msgr. Laughlin’s generosity. His thoughtful remembrance of his mentors will provide future students the opportunity to learn from a new generation of great mentors at Loras. We will steward Msgr. Laughlin’s investment well,” said Collins.

Launched on October 10, 2013, the $75 million Inspiring Lives and Leadership: The Loras Legacy campaign is the largest fundraising campaign in the 175-year history of the College. In addition to raising funds to support student aid and faculty/staff professional development, the campaign seeks funds to build upon the launch of its MBA program, business analytics initiative and other academic programs. As of August 1, 2014, the campaign has raised $56.6 million.